The Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) has tendered 37.8 MW of grid-connected rooftop solar to be installed across the state. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)-empaneled channel partners of solar PV systems having valid channel partner certificate for “design and supply of grid-connected rooftop solar PV projects” in the range of 1 to 1,000 kW capacity can submit bids. The last date of bid submission is February 28, 2017.

The scope of work includes, providing end-to-end solution for identified locations, design, manufacture, supply, and warranty of five years. The successful contractors will have to facilitate the application to the state distribution company (DISCOM) for no objection certificate and obtain the approval for implementing the project, and facilitation of net metering. The contractors will have to contact the consumers and procure work orders.

The maximum allowable project cost is Rs.65 ($0.967)/W and the projects are expected to be complete within 12 months of award of contract. The JAKEDA has stated that the lowest bidder will get to develop projects aggregating 7.56 MW (maximum allowed capacity for the lowest bidder) and the remaining capacity (30.24 MW) will be distributed equally among all other selected channel partners who are willing to match cost quoted by lowest bidder.

The MNRE sets the upper limit of project cost at Rs.75 ($1.115)/W, but as this tender is only for supply, JAKEDA has estimated the upper limit to be Rs.65 ($0.967)/W, stated a JAKEDA official.

The contractors also will have to enter into a tripartite agreement with JAKEDA and operation & maintenance (O&M) vendors for the purpose of providing necessary support, facilitation, manuals, spares, tools and tackles to the vendors identified by JAKEDA.

The excess power generated through these rooftop solar systems will be sold to Power Development Department of Jammu & Kashmir, stated the JAKEDA official. The official also confirmed that central financial assistance of 70 percent will be applicable to the projects.